With the recent rise in skin cancers including melanoma, many people are starting to wonder how they can better protect themselves from the harsh rays of the sun. The truth is, no matter how light- or dark-skinned a person is, everyone can experience damage from the sun's rays. So if you're going out into the sun, it's imperative that you protect yourself using any means necessary including lotions and sun-blocking clothes. In addition to being a health risk, regular exposure to the sun without protection can prematurely age your skin. Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself.
Some people only use it on their face, but in reality it's important to use at least an SPF 15 sunblock every day, on every bit of exposed skin. Many lotions have started adding SPF to their list of ingredients so that when you put your lotion on after bathing, you are already protected without even thinking about it or having to add another lotion.
If you are someone who is out in the sun for extended periods of time every day, you should carry sun protection with you so that you can re-apply as necessary. Most sun lotions are only good for three to five hours, which means that after that window, you will not be as protected as you should be.
In addition to sunblock, you can wear light-colored clothing that covers exposed skin. You might even want to throw on a hat to block the sun's rays. Reducing the amount of skin exposed to sunlight is an effective prevention method. You could even double up the protection by wearing sun-blocking clothing and using lotion on exposed skin.
Although the dangers of artificial tanning are known, many people still insist on doing it. If this means you, stop -- it's the unhealthiest thing you could do to your skin. Instead, opt to go all-natural and just embrace your skin tone.